Like most websites Channel 4 uses cookies. In order to deliver a personalised, responsive service and to improve the site, we remember and store information about how you use it. This is done using simple text files called cookies which sit on your computer. These cookies are completely safe and secure and will never contain any sensitive information. They are used only by Channel 4 or the trusted partners we work with. How to manage cookies

In order to deliver an optimised service, Channel 4 uses cookies. These are simple text files which sit on your computer, and are only used by us and our trusted partners. To find out about managing cookies, please see our Cookies Policy.

The Dark Side of Being YoungTechnology Addiction

With the rise of Mobile phone and computer use the NHS has seen a rise in internet and technology addiction. Addiction is a condition that results when a person ingests a substance (e.g., alcohol, cocaine, nicotine) or engages in an activity (e.g. gambling, sex, shopping) that can be pleasurable but the continued use/act of which becomes compulsive and interferes with ordinary life responsibilities, such as work, relationships, or health. Users may not be aware that their behavior is out of control and causing problems for themselves and others.

As we see in Michelle’s episode, Internet addiction can take up nearly every waking hour of the day. In Michelle’s case this is a collection of activities performed on a number of devices – social media, watching films and gaming, on phone, computer and console – but it could be just one thing that is the draw.

With every hour of the day given over to technology it becomes completely consuming, taking over every aspects of the sufferers life to the detriment of all others. This leads to fractured relationships with friends and family, no time for exercise or building relationships, and eating and sleeping badly.

This can have physical implications, and while the condition Michelle develops is rare, it’s more common for the addiction to cause you to suffer from regular backaches and headaches and you might also lose or gain a lot of weight in a short time. It can be hard for the sufferer to recognise that anything is wrong, as these physical effects can be compounded by mental health conditions like low mood and even depression. This in turn can further isolate the sufferer.

Help & Support

If you think you, or someone you know, is suffering from a technology or internet addiction, or any of the issues raised here, then the following organisations offer help and support.

Do you have a question you'd like to see here?

Is it normal to...

Your question

We are not able to provide individual answers to questions submitted through the site. This form is only a means of suggesting broader topics you would like to see addressed here in the future and is not monitored daily. If you are distressed we recommend talking to a family member or visiting our 4Viewers (Opens in a new window) for further information on a range of topics.